Which of the following is a recognized risk factor for strokes?

Undiagnosed atrial fibrillation is a significant risk factor for strokes because it can lead to the formation of blood clots in the heart. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a type of irregular heartbeat that can disrupt normal blood flow, increasing the likelihood of thrombus (blood clot) formation. These clots can travel from the heart to the brain, resulting in a stroke when they obstruct blood flow. The risk of stroke is particularly elevated in individuals with AF who remain undiagnosed or untreated, as they do not receive appropriate anticoagulation therapy or management strategies that could mitigate this risk.

In contrast, high physical activity levels, effective diabetes management, and a low cholesterol diet are generally associated with reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, including strokes. High physical activity can improve heart health and circulation, while good diabetes management can prevent complications such as vascular damage. A low cholesterol diet supports healthy cholesterol levels, which helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular issues.